The Palgrave Handbook of Global Social Problems

Abstract

The contribution of the informal sector to the economy of African countries cannot be undermined. Through the informal sector, a large percentage of the African population is employed, and revenue is provided for the survival of several families. Agricultural activities of rural dwellers are crucial in the infor- mal sector, and it promotes the welfare of rural dwellers while also supplying urban inhabitants with nourishing food items for consumption. Farming is one of the most recognized occupations of rural dwellers, and it is worrying that their revenue is controlled and limited by the activities of middlemen. This chapter explores the activities of middlemen and how they contribute to the poverty of rural farmers in Africa. Although middlemen play an invaluable role in trans- forming and transporting farm produce from the farmers to the market and the final consumers, their activities must be adequately controlled. The actions of middlemen systematically impoverish rural farmers, and conscious steps must be taken to change the narrative. Government must regulate the agricultural value chain and empower farmers to improve their wellbeing.